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Monday, February 09, 2009

A statement on the Chelsea website this evening has announced that Luiz Felipe Scolari has been dismissed as manager of Chelsea Football Club today (Monday) with immediate effect. World Cup winner Scolari had only been in the job since June 2008 -

Unfortunately the results and performances of the team appeared to be deteriorating at a key time in the season.

In order to maintain a challenge for the trophies we are still competing for we felt the only option was to make the change now. [Source]

Obviously I have been disappointed by our recent performances but I don't agree with this decision. The statement details that this is a key time in the season and with Champions League qualification the priority making a change now is dangerous. The players will have to adapt to a new manager who will bring in a different system and style of play. This transition will take time and that worries me a lot especially with the amount of matches remaining.

The obvious names are already been linked to the vacant Chelsea position, Russia coach Guus Hiddink and former manager Avram Grant. Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke appear to be who the players want but I think it's too soon for Gianfranco even though he would be the popular choice. Personally I would like to see Fabio Capello but after what happened with Sven Goran Eriksson it's not going to happen. That leaves Frank Rijkaard who I think should have taken over in the summer - a source confirmed at the time it was a done deal - he has experience with big name players and had an impressive record at Barcelona leading them to Champions League glory.

What are your views about the Roman Empire? Who do you think Chelsea will appoint as their next manager?